The Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic hiking trails in the United States. Spanning more than 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail passes through 14 states, eight national parks, and dozens of towns and cities. This trail has been a popular destination for hikers of all levels, from novice to expert. To help prepare for your journey along the Appalachian Trail, we've put together a timeline of everything you need to know before taking your first steps.
Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, this timeline will provide all the information you need to make your journey a success. The Appalachian Trail was first conceived in 1921 by Benton MacKaye, a Massachusetts forester. He proposed a trail that would stretch from Maine to Georgia, connecting mountain ranges and providing recreational opportunities for hikers. In 1925, the first section of the trail was completed between Bear Mountain, New York and Mount Oglethorpe, Georgia. The next few decades saw more sections being built and connected, with the trail being completed in 1937. Since then, it has become a beloved part of American culture, with thousands of people attempting to hike its entire length each year. In 1968, Congress passed the National Trails System Act, which officially recognized and protected the Appalachian Trail as a national scenic trail.
The act also established a non-profit organization called the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), which is responsible for managing and protecting the trail. The ATC works with 31 different state trail clubs to maintain the trail and ensure it remains a beautiful and safe experience for hikers. Today, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. It is estimated that 3 million people visit the trail each year, and approximately 2,000 attempt to hike its entire length each year. It is also listed as one of the top 100 “Places to Visit Before You Die” by National Geographic Magazine.
The trail continues to provide an incredible experience for hikers from all walks of life.
1925: The First Section Completed
In 1925, the first section of the Appalachian Trail was completed between Bear Mountain, New York and Mount Oglethorpe, Georgia. This section was the first of many that would eventually span more than 2,000 miles and become one of the most popular and challenging hiking trails in the United States. The completion of this section marked a major milestone in the history of the Appalachian Trail, as it would be the first step towards its current status today. The project to create the Appalachian Trail began in 1921, when regional hiking clubs from New England and the Mid-Atlantic states united to create a trail stretching from Maine to Georgia. This ambitious plan was a huge undertaking, as it required surveying and constructing a trail through some of the most rugged terrain in the country.Despite these challenges, the first section of the trail was completed in 1925.
1968: The National Trails System Act
The National Trails System Act, passed by Congress in 1968, officially recognized and protected the Appalachian Trail as a national scenic trail. This groundbreaking legislation ensured that the Appalachian Trail would remain a public space for generations of hikers to come. The act also provided funding for the trail, including money for maintenance and land acquisition. It also established the Appalachian Trail Conference to oversee and manage the trail. The National Trails System Act was a major milestone in the history of the Appalachian Trail.It helped ensure that the trail would remain a public resource for years to come, so that hikers from all walks of life could enjoy its beauty and challenge.
1937: The Trail Is Completed
In 1937, the final section of the Appalachian Trail was completed. After years of hard work and dedication, volunteers and trail-builders had successfully created a 2,000-mile-long pathway that spanned from Maine to Georgia. This monumental achievement marked the completion of the world's longest hiking trail. The completion of the Appalachian Trail was the result of years of tireless work by dedicated individuals. The project began in 1921 when Benton MacKaye proposed a 3,000-mile-long trail connecting farms and wilderness areas.The idea of a “Great Appalachian Trail” soon gained traction and by 1925, volunteers began constructing the trail. Over the next 12 years, the trail was slowly built, with over 10,000 miles of pathway completed by 1937. The completion of the Appalachian Trail was a monumental achievement that changed the landscape of outdoor recreation. It is now one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States, offering a challenging and rewarding experience for those who choose to take on its 2,000-mile-long journey.
Today: A Popular Destination
Today, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. It is estimated that 3 million people visit the trail each year, making it a sought-after destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.The Appalachian Trail offers spectacular views of the wilderness and plenty of opportunities to explore the many forests, mountains, and valleys that make up the trail. Hiking the Appalachian Trail is an experience that will remain with you for a lifetime. The trail is divided into multiple sections, allowing hikers to choose how much of the trail they want to complete. For those looking for an intense challenge, the entire 2,000 mile journey can be done in one go. For those looking for a shorter trip, there are also sections that can be completed in just a few days or weeks.
The variety of terrain along the way makes it possible for everyone to find something that suits their skill level and interests. The Appalachian Trail is also known for its rich history and culture. There are numerous sites along the way that tell stories of America's past, from Native American settlements to Revolutionary War battlefields. People who have completed the trail often come away with an appreciation for the natural beauty of the region and a better understanding of its history. No matter why you choose to hike the Appalachian Trail, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery and rich history, this trail has something for everyone. The Appalachian Trail has been a beloved part of the American landscape for nearly a century, and its evolution over the years has been remarkable.
In 1925, the first section was completed, and by 1937 the full trail was finished. The National Trails System Act of 1968 provided further protection for the trail, and today it is one of the most popular hiking trails in the United States. For hikers of all ages and skill levels, the Appalachian Trail is an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime.
